christmas gifts

It's been quiet over here as I've been in bed for a few days with the flu...I can't remember the last time I felt so ill!

I find it horrible feeling so completely useless, there's so much that needs doing. My car is up for its MOT, the house needs cleaning, washing needs to be done and I haven't even began to think about the fact it Christmas next month. I had high hopes of making a fun, homemade advent calendar for Theo, but I don't  think I have time anymore. We haven't started any shopping or gift making and I'm started to get a little worried that we're running out of time! Last year we did quite well and most things were wrapped up by December but this year it's all got a little left behind.

I think I have an idea of what to get most of my family members but there are always people I struggle with, such as my Dad and grandparents! Last year we made Rob's grandparents a calendar with pictures of Theo which went down well, so I'm guessing this year we may carry on the same theme.

Here is a little guest post of ideas:

Best presents for your elderly relatives

No matter how close your family is, buying presents for your relatives can prove to be a tough task - particularly when they're a bit older. You'll often find that people will insist that they own everything they need and they don't want a gift, which is quite endearing, but not very helpful! However, there are many gift ideas that can improve an older person's life.

Your older relatives can benefit from an electronic device as much as anyone else. Handheld games consoles such as the Nintendo DS cater well to the elderly market by offering puzzle games such as Sudoku, which are a brilliant way to keep the brain ticking as well as being good fun. Alternatively, you could opt for an electronic tablet, which might be easier to handle. These can be used for watching videos, playing music and games and storing photos. They're designed to be easy to use, so with a bit of practise they can be operated by even the biggest technophobes! Shop tablets at Isme to find the model best suited to your relative's needs. For book lovers you could also consider an e-reader, which you can pre-load with classic favourites or anything you think they'd enjoy. 
If your relative enjoys getting out and about, grab them some tickets for a surprise getaway. Think of destinations that you know they like: perhaps they have a favourite hotel, are into cruises or there's somewhere they've always wanted to go. If you don’t want to dive right in and book the trip yourself, you could always purchase hotel or travel vouchers so that they can organise a break at a time and place that’s right for them.


Give your gift a special touch by putting together a photo album or a CD of their favourite music. Simple but heartfelt, a personalised present shows that you pay attention to their tastes and opinions. Whether you're working with a big budget or are making the gift yourself, finding something to suit an older relative is far from impossible. They might think they have everything, but chances are they'll still be delighted with an inventive gift that also makes their life easier or brightens up their day. 


This post was written in collaboration with Kira.